Korey Smith says becoming a father for the first time helped him cope with the frustration of being side-lined through injury this season.

Initially ruled out of the start of Bristol City’s Championship campaign by an ankle injury that required corrective surgery last summer, Smith was subsequently inconvenienced by a series of secondary problems that served to delay his return to action.

Now restored to full match sharpness, the combative midfielder has started the last six games for the Robins, helping the Robins achieve two wins and three draws to exit the relegation zone.

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Delighted to finally be able to consign his injury problems to the past, the former Norwich and Oldham man spoke openly of how fatherhood helped him deal with the bad times.

Korey Smith.

He explained: “When you’re injured it is lonely. The boys are all out on the training pitch while you’re on your own in the gym – you might see them at lunchtime, but they’re going off to away games and staying in hotels while you’re left on your own with the physios.

“Don’t get me wrong, the masseurs and physios have been absolutely great with me – they really keep your spirits up. But now that I go home to my son and my missus, I walk through that door and they’re a massive help because they put a smile on my face.

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“He’s not thinking that you’re injured or not playing or you’ve lost a game, he just loves you for who you are because you’re his dad. You can’t be sad around him – you’ve got to have a smile on your face because those are the things you live for.”

Now nearing the completion of a third season on City’s books, Smith insists he is settled in Bristol and intends being around Ashton Gate for a good while yet.

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Bristol City team

He added: “Bristol is like a second home to me. I’ve met some of my best friends here – people I’ll be friends with for the rest of my life. The place has been great and the fans have always been so supportive of me.

“Hopefully, that can continue for a long time, because I love it here and enjoy every moment. I appreciate the opportunity the club gave me and I’ll always continue to give 100 per cent for them.”